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Solicitor Apprentice (Non graduate) Review

at HMRC

Degree Apprenticeship

Legal/Law

London

Review Submitted: April 2026

Overall Rating

5 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role
5/5 - Skills Development
5/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I’m a Solicitor Apprentice in the Personal Tax Litigation team, where I support lawyers on live tax appeals and tribunal cases alongside my apprenticeship studies. My work is practical and involves the day‑to‑day running of cases, including preparing tribunal bundles, chronologies and indexes, drafting correspondence, and organising evidence.
I regularly assist with witness statements and attend hearings where possible, which has helped me better understand how tax disputes are progressed and argued in practice. Over time, I’ve taken on more responsibility and become more confident managing my own tasks with supervision, while reflecting on my development as I work towards qualifying as a solicitor.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really enjoy the programme. It gives me meaningful responsibility on real Personal Tax Litigation cases, which makes the work engaging and rewarding. Being able to apply my learning directly to live matters, while developing confidence and practical legal skills, has made the apprenticeship both challenging and motivating.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I’ve developed a range of new skills and strengthened existing ones through the programme. In particular, my legal drafting, attention to detail, and case‑management skills have improved significantly through hands‑on work in Personal Tax Litigation. I’ve also grown in confidence, communication, and my ability to manage responsibility, while consistently applying academic learning to real cases.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well structured and clear, with a good balance between study and practical work. Expectations are set clearly, and the structure allows me to progress steadily while applying my learning directly to real cases.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a high level of support from my team and supervisors. I’m trusted with responsibility but always feel able to ask questions, seek guidance, and discuss my development in a supportive environment.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
The training provider is supportive and responsive, providing clear guidance on coursework, assessments, and progression. The structure helps me stay on track while balancing work and study.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
The qualification strongly complements my role. The legal knowledge I gain feeds directly into my work, helping me understand cases more clearly and approach tasks with greater confidence and competence.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
There are opportunities to get involved beyond day‑to‑day work, including professional development, networking, and team‑based activities, which help create a supportive and inclusive working environment.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend HMRC to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend HMRC because it offers meaningful work, strong training, and genuine development opportunities. The apprenticeship programme allows you to gain real legal experience while being well supported, and there is a strong emphasis on learning, progression, and work–life balance.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to HMRC?
Be open to learning and show that you’re genuinely interested in public service and the work HMRC does. Strong organisation, attention to detail, and a willingness to take responsibility are really important. I’d also recommend being proactive, asking questions, and making the most of the support and opportunities available once you’re in the role.
In This Review
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